Egypt’s political parties are stepping into the food supply chain, opening outlets that offer essential goods like rice and cooking oils at reduced prices, especially ahead of Ramadan and upcoming elections. These initiatives aim to alleviate financial burdens on consumers and capitalize on the opportunity to engage with constituents, following a long-standing practice of using food aid as a political tool.
Egyptian political parties are intervening in the domestic food supply chain to provide consumers with essential goods such as rice, pasta, and cooking oils at lower prices. Some affluent parties have established commercial outlets in various cities where they sell food items, including beef and chicken, at rates about 25% lower than market prices. These initiatives aim to alleviate the burden of rising commodity prices on consumers amid rampant inflation.
The presence of these outlets, notably in anticipation of Ramadan—a period marked by increased consumption—offers a temporary respite to families struggling with escalating food costs. Civil servant Mohamed Mahmud expressed hope that these shops will remain operational beyond the election season, highlighting the significance of accessible food for families.
As the political landscape heats up ahead of the August House of Representatives elections, parties are employing food provisions as a strategy to connect with constituents. This tactic mirrors historically established practices where providing food aids cultivates political goodwill, as noted by political sociology expert Said Sadek, who remarked on the creation of “political capital” through social services offered during election cycles.
The ongoing debate regarding the electoral process reflects a broader crisis among political parties regarding public recognition. Many citizens are unfamiliar with the multitude of parties, attributed to restrictions on direct political engagement. To counter this, parties have embraced a strategy of integrating themselves into the food supply chain to enhance their visibility and reputation.
Prominent parties, including the Nation’s Future Party, are leading the charge in providing food aid, distributing thousands of food boxes prominently branded with their logo alongside President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi’s image. The Republican People’s Party is also actively contributing by opening commercial outlets and providing free medical services, thereby seeking to fulfill their social responsibilities towards the public during these challenging times.
Egyptian political parties are strategically engaging with the public by providing essential food items at reduced prices as they prepare for upcoming elections. This initiative aims to not only support families struggling with increased costs but also to build political capital. By leveraging food distribution, parties seek to enhance visibility and reconnect with constituents amidst a politically challenging landscape characterized by low public recognition.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
